DNA Probes

This edition is an updated version of the first edition, plus many new sections on specific applications of nucleic acid probes. Due to the explosion of such applications, experts in each major area have described their specialty. As in the first edition, the emphasis is on the commercial uses of DNA probes, as in diagnostic applications, and it incorporates background material, advice and specific protocols. Many changes and advances have occurred in the past three years. Radioactive labelling of DNA with 32p has been widely replaced by detection with chemiluminescent labels. New target amplification procedures have been developed to rival PCR. The use of PCR has allowed DNA probes to become powerful tools in areas where they previously lacked necessary sensitivity. The first seven chapters cover the theory, synthesis, labelling and detection of nucleic acid probes, as well as sample preparation. The remaining nine chapters each cover a specific application where the use of nucleic acid probes have had an important impact. Areas covered include in situ analyses, cloning, retroviruses, genetics, cancer, bacteria, food, environmental testing and forensics.